100 signatures reached
To: We will give petition to city hall commissioners.
Support an island treasure. 150-300 year old live Oak tree.
The Petition is in support of this 150-300 year old oak tree.
For centuries, the majestic oak on 7th Street has stood as a silent guardian of our history. It has weathered storms, watched our city grow, and provided a canopy of life in a rapidly developing landscape. But right now, its future relies on a piece of paper—and we need your help to ensure that paper is never torn up.
The Situation
In January 2026, city officials discussed purchasing the 0.1-acre lot housing this historic tree for $400,000. The goal was noble: to secure the land as a tiny park or conservation buffer, guaranteeing the oak’s forever safety.
In January 2026, city officials discussed purchasing the 0.1-acre lot housing this historic tree for $400,000. The goal was noble: to secure the land as a tiny park or conservation buffer, guaranteeing the oak’s forever safety.
The Commission ultimately voted against the purchase, citing that the price tag was not justified for such a small parcel.
The St. Augustine Beach City Commission agenda for March 2, 2026, included a discussion to modify or rescind a tree preservation agreement for 106 7th Street, presented by Building and Zoning Director Brian Law. This action is intended to allow for the construction of a house on the lot.
The Good News (and The Risk)
While the city does not own the land, the tree is not currently slated for removal. Thanks to a conditional use permit tied to nearby development, the oak has been protected since 2019. The rules are clear: the tree must remain untouched, protective barriers must be installed, and no construction equipment is allowed near it.
While the city does not own the land, the tree is not currently slated for removal. Thanks to a conditional use permit tied to nearby development, the oak has been protected since 2019. The rules are clear: the tree must remain untouched, protective barriers must be installed, and no construction equipment is allowed near it.
Why We Are Petitioning:
"Protected on paper" is not the same as "preserved forever."
Permits can expire. Priorities can shift. Ownership can change hands (the lot is currently owned by HVG Properties).
"Protected on paper" is not the same as "preserved forever."
Permits can expire. Priorities can shift. Ownership can change hands (the lot is currently owned by HVG Properties).
By declining to purchase the land, the City saved $400,000. We are asking the Commission to continue to invest in its preservation. NO house construction.
We, the undersigned, want the Commissioners to know that we support the lifetime preservation of the 7th Street Oak. And all such trees on the island.
1. Rigorously Enforce the 2019 conditional use permit requirements.
2. Pledge that no future variances or permits will compromise the health or existence of this tree. The public will be notified of any discussions to the contrary.
The Bottom Line:
We appreciate your ongoing support of preserving our trees. Let’s not let our history be uprooted.
We appreciate your ongoing support of preserving our trees. Let’s not let our history be uprooted.
Why is this important?
The removal of mature, 100+ year-old trees causes significant increases in soil erosion, primarily due to the loss of deep-rooted, stabilizing, and protective structures.
Without mature trees, the ground loses its ability to absorb water, leading to higher runoff and surface erosion.
The removal of 100+ year-old trees impacts soil for decades, with studies indicating that the effects on increased soil water and reduced stability can last 16 to 27 years IF new, mature trees take their place. Replacing old-growth forests with agriculture can cause a 52% increase in soil loss
We appreciate your ongoing support of preserving our trees. Let’s not let our history be uprooted.
How it will be delivered
We will hand the petition to city hall